My Style: Estee Stanley

Estee Stanley is a fashion stylist and interior designer. For the last fifteen years, Estee has worked with a variety of clients including Ashley Olsen, Penelope Cruz, and Jessica Biel. She is based in Los Angeles.

What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?

Trying to wear something that doesn’t fit.

Please describe your style in three words.

Classic, bohemian, and timeless.

Do you believe in role models?

Only if they inspire you.

What are your favourite fabrics?

Cashmere, silk, and cotton.

Are there any style combinations that you object to?

Yes, I am opposed to the mixing and matching of prints.

Which city has the best-dressed women?

Paris without question.

Would you say that you are conservative or bold?

Conservative in fashion, bold in personality.

What are the rules in the way you dress?

I like to be stylish but not trendy. I like to be comfortable but will deal with a little bit of discomfort for fashion.

Celebrities and style...

Are the role models for most of the way people dress nowadays.

Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?

Fendi bags and Manolo Blahnik shoes.

What is your biggest regret?

The time I shaved the side of my head in high school and wore rainbow eye shadow. But that was in fashion and I was on trend.

A woman should always look like...

She didn’t try too hard.

Who taught you what you know about style?

My grandmother.

How do you select your clothing every morning?

By my mood and what I am doing that day.

The three essential things a woman should know about style are...

Know of a good tailor. Know what clothes flatter your body type, as just because you like something does not mean it will work for you. Have fun.

Do you have any shopping rituals?

I always look at clothing first — my favourite designers first, then I go to the shoe department.

We will never see you wearing...

High heel wedge tennis shoes.

Which new designers do you follow and why?

Wes Gordon — he is doing new fresh designs that a lot of people can wear.

Who is the most stylish person you have ever seen?

Ashley and Mary Kate Olsen.

What is the first thing you notice on a woman?

Her jewellery.

What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?

Handbags and shoes and my fur jackets from The Row.

The one image that defined your approach to style...

Seeing my grandmother and all of her friends dressed up every day because that generation didn’t believe that a woman should go out not looking like a lady.

Which designer never fails to impress you?

Giambattista Valli.

One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...